Bold and spicy, this Cajun Seasoning has a rich, smoky flavor that will add a burst of Southern-inspired flavor, using ingredients you have in your pantry. Ready in 5 minutes, this versatile spice blend can be added to meats, vegetables, soups, rice, grains and more!
I always have meat in the freezer for those days when I need to make dinner but haven't been to the grocery store for a while. Of course, you need more than chicken, shrimp or beef to make a meal. The genius of this homemade Cajun seasoning is that you can make it and then have it ready for those days when you have some good basics in the freezer or pantry but need some flavor!
Best of all, this spicy seasoning can also be used to season veggies, stir-fry dishes, potatoes, tofu, stews, rice, quinoa, sauces--even popcorn!
Recipe Ingredients
Be sure to see the recipe card for full ingredients and instructions.
- Paprika: Adds a sweet and mildly spicy flavor. You can use smoked or regular paprika in this spice blend.
- Garlic powder: Milder than fresh garlic, this convenient powder adds a savory garlic flavor and enhances the other flavors of the seasoning mix.
- Oregano: With an earthy and robust flavor, this herb is important to building the flavor of cajun seasoning blends.
- Onion powder: This versatile powder delivers the savory and sweet flavor of onions, but is less sharp than fresh onion.
- Thyme: Peppery and slightly sweet, this herb adds depth to this cajun spice blend.
- Cayenne pepper: Fiery and bold, this adds heat and a spicy flavor. Add more or less depending on the level of heat you want.
- Salt: Enhances the other ingredients, plus adds a savory taste to the blend.
- Pepper: Spicy and pungent, pepper adds an earthy and sharp taste.
How to Make This Homemade Cajun Seasoning
- Assemble. Add all the ingredients to a shallow bowl or a plate. Mix to combine.
- Store. Transfer to a closed jar/container and store away from direct sunlight.
Recipe FAQ's
Most Cajun seasoning mixes include paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, pepper, and oregano.
Keep your Cajun spice blend in an airtight, glass jar for best results. Store in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight. Storing spices in glass containers is preferred as plastic containers are porous and will allow small amounts of air into the container, making the flavor fade faster.
Cajun seasoning is great for flavoring shrimp, fish, beef, pork and chicken--rub the seasoning on the meat before roasting, pan-searing or grilling. In addition, you can flavor grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers or corn. Season sweet potato fries before cooking in the air fryer, or mix with some olive oil and brush on new potatoes before roasting in the oven. Mix seasoning into cooked quinoa or rice, soups, stews and chili. Even popcorn and roasted nuts taste great with a sprinkling of cajun seasoning!
Top Tips
- Add extra flavor. If you want a little extra flavor, increase the cayenne pepper or onion powder.
- Use fresh dried herbs. Make sure your herbs are of good quality and still fresh (i.e., not past their expiration date). Dried herbs do lose their flavor over time, and your homemade seasoning will taste best if the ingredients are not expired.
- Make a big batch. It's easy to double or triple the recipe. This is a great way to make a big batch of this homemade Cajun seasoning mix and have it on hand whenever you need it, or to give as a gift.
Recipe Variations
- If you don't have onion powder or don't like the flavor, it can be omitted but it brings the other flavors together nicely.
- I used freshly ground black pepper, but you can use powdered black pepper or white or red pepper.
- If you're limiting your salt intake, using homemade Cajun seasoning allows you to adjust the salt in the recipe.
- Thyme can be omitted if you don't have it on hand, but I like the flavor it gives to the blend.
Storage
- To store: Place spice blend in an air-tight jar/container away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Use within 3 months for best taste.
Dishes to Use Your Cajun Seasoning With
If you want to keep things super simple, use your Cajun seasoning with chicken breast or another favorite protein. If you're up for putting in a little more effort, here are some easy main and side dish ideas that will go well with the flavors in this recipe:
- Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken
- Roasted vegetables
- Soups, chili and stews
- Cooked quinoa, rice or couscous
- Tofu, shrimp and fish
- Roasted nuts and popcorn
- Potatoes: red potatoes, russets and sweet potatoes
- Grilled chicken, pork and beef
More Spice Blends
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Cajun Seasoning
Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons smoked paprika or regular paprika
- 1 Tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 Tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 Tablespoon onion powder
- ½ Tablespoon dried thyme
- ½ Tablespoon cayenne pepper
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Add all the ingredients to a shallow bowl or a plate. Mix to combine.
- Transfer to a closed jar/container and store away from direct sunlight.
Notes
- To store: Place in an air-tight jar/container away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Use within 3 months for best taste.
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